There’s a lot to consider when you’re setting up or running a charity or community group. It’s a hugely rewarding role, but you need to make sure you’re doing it right.

Planning and Strategy

The strategic plan developed by the board and senior management helps clarify the organisation’s purpose, set direction and allocate resources, as well as motivating and engaging staff and volunteers.

It’s vital you get your strategic plan right. What do you want to achieve over what time period? What resources do you need to deliver that? If you need help writing your plan check out our How to… page for guidance and support.

One question you need to ask is whether anyone else is working in the same area as you. In a climate of restricted funding, collaboration or a merger with another charity can be a way to achieve more for your beneficiaries. Below are a number of resources which can help you think through whether this is right for you and how to achieve this.

The Cranfield Trust works with business volunteers to put their skills to work for charities as pro bono consultants, to help non-profit organisations change and grow. Some charities and organisations may be eligible for their free management consultancy.